LAS VEGAS – Karl Williams turned 32 in January. He couldn’t have known at the time that his age might cause him some stress while trying to break into the UFC.
Just a week ago, UFC president Dana White said he typically isn’t looking to bring 32-year-old fighters into the promotion through Dana White’s Contender Series. But he also said he trusts matchmakers Sean Shelby and Mick Maynard when they set up fights, and 32-year-old Blake Bilder impressed him enough at DWCS 52 to get a deal.
Tuesday, Williams (7-1) took a unanimous decision from Jimmy Lawson (4-2) at DWCS 53. The fact he didn’t get a finish, combined with the knowledge of what White just had said about fighters his exact age had him a little nervous he wouldn’t get a UFC contract.
